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"Versus has an exclusive negotiating window in December. But as of now the NHL is in a better position than ever. Not only is it coming off buzz-inducing playoffs that saw record ratings for hockey and a renewed interest in the sport, but it may well be the only sport on the dial next autumn."

On that same subject, starting November 15th, Versus will start having a nightly hockey show.

"The teams are expected to be picked during a live television event at the start of the all-star weekend. Players will earn a trip to the game the same way as the past — with fans voting for the starters and the NHL’s hockey operations staff rounding out the rest of the pool."